Post-Operative Pain Management

There is always some level of pain after a surgical procedure. Everyone’s pain tolerance is different and there will be some level of discomfort even after pain medication is administered. The good news is, there are a number of ways to help control your pain with medications and other alternatives, such as positioning and cold/heat therapy.

We need you to take an active role in determining the most effective plan to manage your pain. This begins before hospitalization and continues through discharge.

What we do to manage your pain:

An assessment is conducted addressing all chronic pain, medications taken prior to or during hospitalization, and how the pain is usually managed.

A plan of care is developed to address your pain needs.

Nursing will be assessing and reassessing your pain level regularly and administering pain medication or other alternative methods, as needed.

Pain consultants are available for complex pain issues.

Education will be provided to you about your pain medication and their side effects.

What you can do to manage your pain:

Report all medication you are taking, the dose and frequency.

Report all chronic and acute pain

Inquire about how much pain to expect and how long it may last. Knowing this information may decrease your anxiety and concern about the pain.

Know possible side effects of the medication

Stay “ahead” of your pain by not waiting too long to take your pain medication

Know your pain management plan

Talk about your pain and ask questions if the current plan is not working